Operation 'Take-Kate-to-Malta' begins: Look out, Malta

The good news for Malta: Duchess Kate of Cambridge arrives in four weeks! The worrying news for Malta: A zillion media people are coming, too.

No doubt at least some Maltese are preparing to flee their pretty little Mediterranean island country, beloved of tourists, medieval knights and Queen Elizabeth II, before the invaders arrive.

It’s going to be a spectacle but an historic one: It’s the first solo official visit for the former Kate Middleton — so no Prince William or baby Prince George — to represent the queen on the 50th anniversary of Malta’s independence from Britain.

It’s only Kate and it’s only two days, but getting her there requires a huge organizational effort, as is clear from details released by the palace today about the Sept. 20-21 visit.

Malta Tourism Authority

Multiple briefings are scheduled, in London and in Malta. Media people have been instructed on what flights to take, what hotel to book, what credentials are required, when the buses leave, even what clothes to wear.

“Pool media are asked to wear smart business attire (jacket and tie for gentlemen, equivalent for ladies),” the palace says.

The trip should make for some spectacular pictures, starting with the beautiful San Anton Palace. Kate is due to tour an historic fort, take a walk through the town square, see two paintings by Caravaggio at St. John Cathedral, stop at the National Library to see documents signed by Henry VIII, and take a boat ride on the breathtaking Grand Harbor.

In other words, it’s fantastic publicity money can’t buy. Get ready, Malta, for the Kate-effect boost in tourist spending.